I've never been a big fan of tying my shoes. It's not that I have a problem doing it -- I am fairly coordinated -- but I get extremely annoyed when I have to stop what I'm doing in order to retie a loose lace.

Actually, the more embarrassing reason is that I'm weirdly particular about my shoes being tied equally tight -- does anyone else have that problem? If one shoe feels tighter than the other, I have to stop and adjust until both shoes feel the same -- not the most efficient use of my time, but I can't run with my right shoe tighter than my left. I just can't.

A couple of years ago I came across Yankz laces, and my troubles have been long gone. The Yankz Sure Lace System, once set up, keeps my shoes fitting perfectly run after run. The laces are slightly stretchy with a locking system, so once you get your shoe fitting exactly the way you want them, you never have to do it again. There's no loosening or tightening -- they're stretchy enough for you to slide your shoe right on (perfect for triathlon), then they stay plenty tight.

As an added bonus, they come in tons of funky, bright colors (as well as plain black or white), so I was able to easily make my bright blue and white shoes reflect my support of the University of Florida with orange laces. I know, color isn't a priority for everyone, but there's nothing wrong with having fun shoes, either.

The only downside I've found is that it isn't all that easy to get them laced in the first place. However, they provide detailed instructions and a video on their website, so I doubt you'll have to much trouble figuring it out.

Yankz are $7.50 each, regardless of color, so pick your favorite. I'm a huge fan, and I bet you will be, too.